SEATTLE — Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell held the first of five public safety forums on Tuesday, in an effort to give residents an opportunity to express concerns and provide input into how the city addresses violence.
"We're not trying to justify what we're doing, we're here to listen. True public safety can only result in the collaboration between the community and the impacted communities." said Harrell.
The event was held at Garfield High School in the Central District.
On April 23, witnesses reported hearing about a dozen shots during a drive-by shooting near the school.
Nobody was injured.
On March 13, a student was shot and injured in a drive-by shooting.
"There are shootings here, it feels like every month. It's a dangerous place," said one community member who was given an opportunity to speak by Mayor Harrell.
That resident was one of only a few who spoke publicly, as the meeting was designed to encourage smaller group conversations between attendees and representatives from city service departments, including representatives from the police and fire departments, CARE department, transportation department, and youth liaisons.
While a variety of topics, including violence, police accountability, and youth services were discussed, city officials requested media covering the forum refrain from recording the small group discussions.
Some residents shared their feelings individually.
"He needs to [hear] what's going on from real people," said Charles E. Slade, referring to Mayor Harrell. "I want them to do the right thing."
Mayor Harrell told KING 5 he intends to take the ideas shared during the forum into consideration.
"We take action. I think people know if they've seen me in the last couple of years take action. I'm not afraid of taking chances on protecting people. I'm bullish on protecting people in this city," he said.
"I don't want to waste their time and I certainly don't want my time wasted. Some of the best ideas come from impacted communities. We're here to listen and we're here to collaborate," Harrell added.
The remaining safety forums are listed below, with links for residents to sign up.
South, Rainier Beach Community Center, May 7, 6-7:30pm, sign up here.
North, Bitter Lake Community Center, May 9, 6-7:30pm, sign up here.
Southwest, Concord Elementary School, May 14, 6-7:30pm, sign up here.
West, Queen Anne Community Center, May 16, 6-7:30pm, sign up here.